Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
If you're looking for quick and convenient drinks that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod machine is difficult to beat. These machines are sleek and are available in all sizes and shapes from tiny models that be placed on the worktop, to larger models that include a frothier for cappuccinos.
This affordable option from Nespresso’s Vertuo range features different-shaped capsules in addition to the standard Espresso pod. You can select among five choices for brewing: Espresso, Double Espresso Gran Lungo Mug, Extra Large Alto.
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
VertuoPlus capsule coffee machines are among Nespresso's more expensive options. This particular model makes use of Centrifusion technology to make the best cup of espresso or long coffee by pressing the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to get the best results in the cup. It eliminates the need to manually adjust anything and only uses the exact amount of coffee, water and energy needed for each capsule's unique drink size.
The machine makes use of centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 turns per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, producing a rich and velvety crema. This helps evenly fill each capsule with water before extraction, which is important for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine also has a huge, 40-ounce water tank, meaning you can make many cups of coffee or espresso without having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine eliminates the capsule used and then puts it inside a container for easy removal and recycling.
best budget coffee machine doesn't have an integrated milk frother, however, it can be used in conjunction with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes. It comes in 13 colours and is slim and tall, weighing less than 9 inches. This makes it simple to place on the counter of your kitchen. The top of the holder opens automatically to make it easier for people who aren't able to insert capsules.
This Nespresso coffee maker is available on Amazon for $119. It's a great price for a machine which can produce the best cup of espresso or long-coffee. It comes with the starter kit, which includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) which allows you to play around with the blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee machine that's simple to use and won't cost you a fortune. It comes in cream or black and can make five milk-based recipes by pressing the button, including cappuccino large and macchiato latte. However, it's not suitable for lattes or foamy drinks as a stand-alone milk frother. It has a small water tank, and only an assortment of compatible capsules. This could make it more suitable for espresso or black coffee drinkers who are able to refill and empty the machine on a regular basis.
Jolie, the smallest and most quiet of Lavazza’s A Modo Mio machines is ideal for those who love high-quality Italian coffee without the hassle of a traditional machine. It's easy to use, with just one backlit stop&go that allows you to select the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its compact size and elegant design makes it the perfect match to any space.
We tested the coffee-only version of the machine - there is also a Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that includes milk-frothers if you're lover of milk-based drinks. It's easy to keep clean, with a clear plastic water tank, with indicators for MIN/MAX and an open capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It shuts off automatically after nine minutes and the power cable can easily be removed from the machine.
As with many capsule machines it is important to clean your Jolie on a regular basis by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. Cleaning it frequently will ensure it is operating at its best.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top pick for espresso lovers who want an at-home, real espresso machine. It's also one of the few machines that we test that produces rich lattes that are creamy and smooth as well as the thin layer of foam that can add a little something extra to your drink. Suggested Browsing for pound it's also a great value for home coffee makers go particularly when you consider that it's cheaper than professional machines.
Contrary to other semi-automatic models we looked at This is a real espresso maker with a built-in grinder as well as a PID temperature control and a steam wand to make milk-based beverages. It's got a bit more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still well within reach for those looking to learn to pull a great shot and make latte art at home.
The hopper is a huge airtight design that keeps freshness and flavor. It is also easy to remove and refill, which is an advantage. The tamper can be removed too, which can be useful in the event that you want to manually tap your shots or using double-wall filters.
Other noteworthy features include a quick heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings and dose control, and drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, but it's not as durable as some other models. Its biggest drawback is its loudness during brewing. However, this will diminish as you get more comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a small quiet pod coffee maker which is perfect for small spaces. It's the most compact of the machines from the brand, and is Lavazza's cheapest capsule coffee maker (although you can still find some of its predecessors, including the Lavazza Tiny A Modo, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini doesn't have the bells and whistles that are found in the other machines on this list It can do everything a basic pod machine should be able to do. It is quick to heat up and simple to use. It's also a good choice for those looking to experiment with different flavors of capsules without having to shell out for a bigger model.
Despite its size, even at its size, Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be taken out, and the water tank comes with an easy-to-read MIN/MAX indicator. It is dishwasher safe and allows you to keep it as clean as possible. The manual contains instructions on how you can wash it every three to four month.
This little machine is loved by users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The quiet operation and the flexible choices it offers are a particular highlight, as is the fact that the capsules can be composted or recycled is a big plus. Some users did have issues with the capacity of the capsule container, but this was easily resolved.
In the box inside, you'll find a power cable and plug along with an instruction manual, quick-guide warranty information and a tester box that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roasted and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. The remaining two are organic, which means that you'll have a wide selection to pick from for your next cup of tea!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini was created to be suitable for modern kitchens, thanks to its sleek design and compact size. It has the potential to change the way you make coffee at home, and is available at an affordable price.
Our test team was impressed with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean, and the waste bin as well as capsule bins are large enough to prevent a buildup of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with a pack of 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules that can be used for an instant treat without the need to make it separately.
This machine is perfect for those who love milk-based coffees and want to give a real espresso in every sip. The machine's automatic brewing system is so sophisticated that it scans every capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the appropriate level for the drink you choose. You'll need an additional machine for making cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is great for those who get up early or have a busy family.
It does not offer the same amount of customisable presets that are available as the VertuoPlus, but this may not be an issue for those who like to tweak until they come up with their ideal recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be set either at the rear or on the other side of the machine depending on the space available. The used capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the possibility to hold your next cup while the machine heats up, as well as alerts when you haven't refilled the water tank or if the machine needs decaling.